Computer Science (with Specialist Pathways) - BSc (Hons) Degree

This degree can be studied as a three-year full-time degree or a four-year degree that includes a year of foundational study. Our foundation year is intended to prepare you for your subsequent years of studying, offering you the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence.

The foundation year will be relevant to:

1. Students who have not achieved the required A-level points (or equivalent) score to enter the first year of the degree programme.
2. Mature students who have been out of the formal education system for some time.

Find out more about the foundation year.

Please note: You will need to apply using a specific UCAS code if you wish to undertake the 4 years including foundation.

Degree

The Computer Science degree programme is comprised of a number of compulsory modules, with a range of options in the second and final year to develop your specific interests and expertise.

Students also have the option to complete a year-long placement in industry between Years 2 and 3.

Modules are 20 credits, unless specified.

Year 1:

• Principles of Programming
• Architectures & Operating Systems
• Computational Thinking
• Computer Science & Applications
• Web Design & Databases
• Explore

Year 2:

Students follow 100 credits of compulsory modules, with a choice of one 20 credit optional module.

Compulsory modules:

• Physical Computing
• Object-Oriented System Design
• Networks & Security
• Collaborative Project
• Expand

Optional modules (one of the following):

• Concepts in Artificial Intelligence
• Embedded Systems

Year 3:

Students follow 100 credits of compulsory modules, with a choice of one 20 credit optional module.

Compulsory modules:

• Computational Intelligence
• Cyber Security and Cryptography
• Computer Science Development Project (BCS) (40 credits)
• Professional, Sustainable & Ethical Technology

Optional modules (one of the following):

• Advanced Programming
• Industrial Work Experience (Placement)
• Business Analytics & Intelligence
• Internet of Things

Note: Optional modules are subject to availability and demand; as such not all optional modules may run in one Academic Year.

Pathways

Students who wish to follow a pathway are required to take a 20 credit pathway specialist module in Years 2 and 3. These modules are defined as follows:

Artificial Intelligence:

• Year 2: Concepts in Artificial Intelligence
• Year 3: Business Analytics & Intelligence

Robotics:

• Year 2: Concepts in Artificial Intelligence OR Embedded Systems
• Year 3: Social Humanoid Robotics

Internet of Things:

• Year 2: Embedded Systems
• Year 3: Internet of Things

Students would also be required to complete their 40 credit dissertation project in a topic related to their pathway specialism.

Note: Pathways are subject to availability and demand; as such not all pathways may run in one Academic Year.

A student-centred approach to learning and teaching is encouraged through the use of a broad range of teaching strategies, such as technical labs and individual and group projects. This is further enhanced by real world case studies and guest talks from industry experts, and supported by Teams and Moodle, our virtual learning environments.

Due to the nature of the programme, online and campus-based practical workshops are key to developing students’ technical understanding and abilities, underpinned by solid theoretical foundations. Students are expected to further develop their knowledge and understanding through directed self-study and independent learning time - in additional to the timetabled delivery - so as to develop a professional portfolio of project work and software artefacts as they move into graduate employment.

Students are supported academically and pastorally by the Programme Team, led by the Programme Director. Each student is also appointed a Personal Tutor from within the School, who provides a point of contact for general academic and pastoral issues. Students are also supported by Student Coaches; the Student Coach role is for current 2nd, 3rd year and Master’s students who provide peer support in Modules.

The assessment strategy for the programme varies to ensure the most appropriate method for each specific module and subject area. Modules are assessed through a combination of methods, such as formal examinations, practical programming assignments, written assignments, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, peer assessments and case studies.

The primary aim of this degree programme is to develop theoretical understanding of the key concepts of computing, software and systems. It will showcase the wider impact and importance of software and technology to both society as well as the UK and global digital economy, alongside developing highly transferable computational thinking, analytical and problem solving skills, as well as a broad range of software development skills.

Real world experience can be obtained as part of your study by completing an optional sandwich year placement / industrial internship. Over the past few years, our students have been successful in obtaining placements in nationally competitive schemes with Microsoft, HP, General Electric and the Met Office.

On successful completion of this degree programme, there are also further taught postgraduate study options across computing and information systems here at Cardiff Met, as well as research and PhD programmes.

Computer Science
Computer Science graduates will find a wide variety of career opportunities across both the traditional IT and telecoms sector, as well as the majority of the other industrial sectors (both public and private), including the digital/creative industries, financial and professional services, advanced manufacturing, engineering and management consultancy.

Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
Artificial Intelligence is an area of significant growth within the IT industry. There is a significant gap in the market, with many opportunities for well-paid employment and rewarding career paths across all sectors for graduates with knowledge and skills in Artificial Intelligence. Roles in Artificial Intelligence cover areas such as Business and Finance, Robotics, and Research and Development across disciplines such as and Medicine and Sport.

Computer Science (Robotics)
The use of robotics is on the rise, with advances in Artificial Intelligence and recognition that robotics can used across many sectors. The subject now crosses the conventional image of robotics in heavy industry to areas such as social robotics for human interaction, and automation at home and in everyday life. Robotics and AI applications examine the integration of robotics through using speech, recognising behaviour and the use of sensors. Expertise in robotics can lead to exciting opportunities in both Industry and Science which will lead to careers that are still emerging, addressing the gaps in the market that are still being discovered in this area.

Computer Science (Internet of Things)
Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly expanding, thanks to the proliferation of connected devices and the increasing demand for automation and data-driven decision-making in various industries. The IoT involves connecting physical objects to the internet, enabling them to interact with each other and with humans, thus creating an ecosystem of interconnected devices that can communicate and share information seamlessly. As the demand for IoT solutions continues to grow, the need for professionals with skills and knowledge in this field is only expected to increase, making it an exciting and dynamic area to pursue a career in.

Typical Offers

​The following requirements are based on typical offers relevant to entering year 1 of the degree.

If you do not meet these entry requirements, we also offer a Foundation Year which allows progression to Year 1 upon successful completion.​

• Tariff points: 104-112
• Contextual offer: See our contextual offers page.
• GCSE: Five GCSEs at Grade C / 4 or above to include English Language / Welsh First Language, Mathematics / Mathematics – Numeracy.
• English Language Requirement: Academic IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in all elements, or equivalent.
• A level subjects: Minimum three A levels to include Grades CCC. No specific subjects required. Welsh Advanced Skills Baccalaureate considered as a third subject.
• BTEC National / Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma: DMM
• T Level: Merit. No specific subjects required.
• Access to Higher Education Diploma: No specific subjects required.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: 2 x H5. No specific subjects required.
• Irish Leaving Certificate: 2 x H2 grades. No specific subjects required. Higher level subjects only considered with a minimum grade H4.
• Scottish Advanced Highers: Grades DD. No specific subjects required. Scottish Highers are also considered, either on their own or in combination with Advanced Highers.

Combinations of the above qualifications are accepted if they meet our minimum requirements. If your qualifications aren’t listed, please contact Admissions or refer to the UCAS Course Search.

Further information on Overseas qualifications can be found here.

If you are a mature applicant, have relevant experience or RPL that you would like us to consider, please contact Admissions.

How to Apply

Further information on how to apply can be found here.

For general enquiries, please contact the Admissions Team on 029 2041 6044 or email askadmissions@cardiffmet.ac.uk.

For course specific enquiries, please contact the Programme Director, Dr Issam Damaj:

• Email: IDamaj@cardiffmet.ac.uk
• Telephone: 029 2041 7207